396 V8

Transmission Type:

4 Speed Manual

Miles:

82,974 (Unknown)

Location:

Charlotte, North Carolina

The all-new 1970 Camaro debuted with a long list of engine options, and this nicely refinished Z/28 packs a very potent big block that makes it one of the most formidable second-gen F-bodies we've seen. It's also great-looking and ready to cruise thanks to a big investment in getting the little things right.

If I had to guess, I'd say that the color is pretty close to code 26 Medium Blue Metallic, and like most second-generation Camaros, it looks long, low and sleek. Silver stripes look sharp and highlight both the cowl-induction hood and 3-piece rear spoiler, and workmanship is great overall. Gaps are even, the long doors line up well, and despite the substantial upgrades under the hood, the exterior remains fairly low-key given this car's performance potential. The shine comes from modern two-stage urethane which has been buffed and polished to look spectacular and a big part of the car's aggressive look comes from the RS front grille with small bumperettes under the headlights, a popular feature then and today. Nice chrome highlights the medium blue paint without being overpowering and proper Z/28 badges were installed in all the right places.

The black interior remains largely stock, with lots of new gear inside. The handsome bucket seats wear new seat covers, there are new black carpets on the floor, and the door panels look great with vertical pleats that add a kind of vintage vibe. A center console with armrest is a welcome site in any Z/28 and the Hurst T-handle shifter for the 4-speed gearbox suggests that it was built only for performance. A Grant steering wheel is a modern piece that is ergonomically worlds better than the original, yet looks right at home in the 44-year-old interior, and there's a JVC AM/FM/CD stereo head unit for entertainment. The wrap-around instrument panel is a handsome, modern-looking design that includes big, round gauges that appear to be in very good original condition and have been rigged to work with the upgraded powerplant. And please take a look in the trunk, where you'll find correct spatter-finish paint and no hidden surprises.

The engine is a built 396 cubic inch V8 that wears L78 375 horsepower decals on the open-element air cleaner, but likely makes a bit more than that today. With bright Chevrolet Orange paint on the block, it has a period look, but the upgrades are obvious, from the Edelbrock Performer RPM intake manifold to the MSD ignition system. It's also dressed to impress with lots of chrome and aluminum, plus braided stainless hose covers and those handsome Performance Specialties valve covers. Key it up and it snarls to life through Hooker Super-Comp long-tube headers and Flowmaster mufflers, instantly tipping folks off that this is no garden-variety Camaro, yet it's docile enough to drive every day. The 4-speed transmission snaps through the gears, delivering twist to the 10-bolt rear end, which hangs on traction bars and air shocks to make the most of available traction. 235/60/15 BFGoodrich radials do their best and look great on factory SS wheels with charcoal centers.

Look at the performance and workmanship that went into this Camaro, then take another look at the price; finding more speed in an early Camaro for less cash will a pretty big challenge. Call today!